First Selectman’s Report: 5/15 - 5/19
1. The “Colchester Memorial Day Parade” has chosen the theme for this year’s parade. This year it is “Colchester Honors and Remembers Those Who Served and Sacrificed in the Vietnam War.” The parade will be held on Sunday May 28th, 2023. The Grand Marshal will be Art Shilosky and the Guest Speaker will be James DePaola.
2. Memorial Day Parade Guest Speaker: Capt. James DePaola
On Sunday, May 28th the Town of Colchester will be hosting the Memorial Day Parade. The Guest Speaker for the event will be Colchester resident James DePaola, a great marine and friend. On behalf of the Town of Colchester, we thank you for your service.
Capt. James DePaola
-USMC Tank Officer, Active Duty from April 2004 - August 2010 (Camp Lejeune, NC).
-Deployed to Fallujah, Iraq as Platoon Commander in 2nd Tank Bn from Sep 2005 - Apr 2006 and as Company Executive Officer from Oct 2007 - May 2008.
-Also Served in billets of Company Commander in 2nd Tank Bn and Inspector-Instructor in 4th Tank Bn.
-Personal Awards - Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Combat Action Ribbon.
3. The Board of Selectmen unanimously sent both the Town Budgets and Education Budgets to a Town Meeting on May 31st and to Referendum on Tuesday, June 13th.
4. The date of the Sewer & Water Public Hearing has yet to be announced. When a date becomes available, the Town will let the public know.
To Review the recommendations of the Sewer & Water Commission in relation to the sewer budget, water budget, and fee increases (along with the original fee structure):https://www.colchesterct.gov/home/news/proposed-23-24-sewer-budget-23-24...
5. ARPA Projects Update
The Youth Center Roof Project is currently in progress: Lower roof Soffit and Facia are completed, restoration of dental work on upper roof facia is occurring now.
The Town Hall Roof Project was put out to bid this week, the walkthrough meeting is taking place May 31st, Bid Occurs on June 14th, Contract completion time is 90 days from Award.
Fire Department Parking Lot/Catch Basins – Bids were opened on Friday. The lowest bidder came in at $200,000. The Town of Colchester will look to award the bid at the next Board of Selectmen meeting on Thursday, June 1st.
Colchester Police Expansion Project – Department level meetings with the First Selectman finalized the outline of construction. Public works to solicit budgetary pricing on temporary offices during construction. Hope to get bid out in the next two weeks.
Rec Plex Irrigation Project - Plans to be provided, within the next two weeks. Work will be put out to bid once received.
6. May is also known as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPI Heritage Month) is an annual celebration that recognizes the historical and cultural contributions of individuals and groups of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to the United States. The Town of Colchester recognizes these contributions, not only in our town but nationwide.
The concept began as week under Jimmy Carter, but May was annually designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month in 1992 under the George H. W. Bush administration with the passing of Public Law 102-450.
7. The week the town officially received cannabis dispensary permits. Construction of the new business is expected to commence at Westchester Market.
8. The Colchester Dog Park is hosting the 9th annual “Spring Bark for the Park.” The event will be held at the Colchester Town Green on Sunday, May 21st from 10:00 to 2:00 P.M., with a rain date of Sunday, June 4th. They will be featuring activities, May Baskets, a blessing of the dogs, and many food and dog related vendors. Vendor slots are still available for $40.00 per booth. No charge for nonprofit organizations. The event is sponsored by The Colchester Parks and Recreation Department. If you are interested, please e-mail [email protected].
9. The Colchester School Readiness Program is offering grant-subsidized quality preschool for the 2023-2024 school year. The program is perfect for children who are residents of Colchester families, want a 5-day-a-week program, and may find it challenging to pay for preschool. We have full-day, school day and part-day spaces available! For more information, go to: https://www.colchesterc3.org/school-readiness
10.The Commission on Aging will be hosting Aging in Place: A Community Vendor Fair. The event will take place at Cragin Memorial Library on June 4th from 4 pm to 7 pm. Representatives from several agencies that provide equipment, services, and companionship to you or a loved one remain in the home safely and comfortable.
11. The 2023 Colchester Annual Top Dog Contest is accepting applications. Please consider entering the contest here: https://www.colchesterct.gov/home/news/31st-annual-top-dog-contest
12. Tim’s Bistro
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to spend time with Jackie Williams, owner of Tim’s Bistro, and her wonderful staff. Offering the largest selection of bagels and coffees in and around Colchester while serving breakfast and lunch all day, there is always something great to choose from. My personal favorites include the bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel for breakfast and the roast beef panini with a half turkey for lunch.
Tim’s Bistro is also known for highlighting the works of local artists and allowing their creativity to flourish on the walls. They have also fund raised for noble causes, most recently for Breast Cancer.
If you are hungry for something delicious, please consider the fantastic selection at Tim’s Bistro!
Andreas Bisbikos
First Selectman